Direct Line 2010: Candidates speak to the voters #10

This year's election has attracted more candidates than Massachusetts has seen in a long time. We believe each of them deserves the chance to speak directly to the voters about whatever issues they want to put on the table. Each Sunday, we're offering candidates on the ballot in contested races space for a brief statement of their choosing

Milford Daily News

Writer

Posted Oct. 24, 2010 at 12:01 AM
Updated Oct 24, 2010 at 11:05 AM

Posted Oct. 24, 2010 at 12:01 AM
Updated Oct 24, 2010 at 11:05 AM

» Social News

This year's election has attracted more candidates than Massachusetts has seen in a long time. We believe each of them deserves the chance to speak directly to the voters about whatever issues they want to put on the table. Each Sunday, we're offering candidates on the ballot in contested races space for a brief statement of their choosing.

Mary Z. Connaughton

Republican for State auditor

You have to be an attorney to be attorney general.

Doesn't it make sense to elect an auditor as State Auditor? I'm the only experienced auditor in the race.

As a certified public accountant, I can hit the ground running and don't need on-the-job training at taxpayers' expense.

The State Auditor is arguably the second most important position in state government. As the top fiscal watchdog on Beacon Hill, the Auditor doesn't report to the governor or legislature, but to the people. The Auditor is your eyes and voice on Beacon Hill.

I have a track record of being a fiscal watchdog while on the Turnpike board. I don't accept contributions from PAC's or lobbyists. The auditor must be independent, beholden to only the public's interest. As a CPA, I'm held to a higher standard.

This race isn't about politics. It's about professionalism. I ask for your vote on Nov. 2.

Jim McGovern

Democrat for Congress

3rd District

This election is about jobs and the economy. As we go forward, there are three main hallmarks of economic growth that we need to focus on. 1) We need to continue to work closely with existing businesses to allow them to thrive and grow. We have a strong foundation of small businesses in our district. But we need to do more to make sure that the working-class families who depend on those businesses can continue to get the income and support they need. 2) We need to create a climate that supports our innovation economy those companies doing cutting edge research and developing revolutionary products in industries like biotechnology, medicine, green technology. I want those jobs here and not in China. 3) Strong and affordable education: We need to make sure that OUR students are ready for the global economy and the jobs of the future.

Gerry Dembrowski

Republican for Congress

7th District

A crisis of confidence, lack of courage and lack of compassion our Congress!

To serve others comes with little or no self gratification or financial rewards. It's a gift reserved to the hearts of the served and server. People don't care how much you know until they know how much you care. The biggest frustration with Congress is they forgot they serve the People first. The problems they've created affect everyone regardless of party affiliation.

Page 2 of 7 - Regardless of which party controls the House and Senate, we need cooperation and collaboration to address America's future.

Leadership is not an entitlement and respect is not given, it's earned. America's future demands leaders in Congress who will put the people's interest first not self-interest. Courage is required to do what is right regardless of pressures from special interest and lobbyist. One man of courage will make a majority.

Ed Markey

Democrat for Congress

7th District

Six months ago, BP's Macondo oil well exploded in the Gulf of Mexico, creating an environmental catastrophe that released more than four million barrels of oil into the ocean.

I stood up to BP and held them accountable for their spill. It may be BP's well, but it is the American people's ocean. I forced BP to make public the video from their underwater "spillcams." I revealed that none of the other big oil companies were prepared for this kind of spill either. The House passed comprehensive spill response legislation, which includes my provisions to require better safety technologies, not allow oil companies to drill for free on public lands, and ensure that when ultra-deep drilling does occur, it is ultra-safe. I will continue to press for transparency and to ensure that BP provides the victims and the region fair and just compensation until BP stands for "Bills Paid."

Jamie Eldridge

Democrat for State Senate

Middlesex & Worcester District

I'm working to get our economy back on track by supporting our small businesses and bringing green jobs to the district. I am fighting for real reform on Beacon Hill and I'll continue to fight for our priorities.

I've always prided myself on being a strong, independent voice for the cities and towns I represent. My first vote as a legislator was a vote against Tom Finneran for Speaker of the House. I am willing to stand up for my constituents, even if it means going up against special interests, big corporations, or the leadership of my own party.

I've been honored to represent the Middlesex and Worcester District and I believe I am the best person for the job because of my independence. I think that is the kind of leadership this district demands of its representatives and I am committed to delivering for the people and communities I represent.

Ed McGrath

Republican for State Senate

2nd Middlesex and Norfolk District

For months those running Beacon Hill have told us that we are on the road to economic recovery, but the latest job numbers show things are getting worse. Data released Thursday shows that, in September, Massachusetts lost 20,900 jobs. That is the worst job loss since the early 1990s. In addition, the job number for August was revised downward. We know now that Massachusetts lost 3000 jobs in August.

Page 3 of 7 - Wishful thinking and press releases do not create jobs. Cutting taxes and cutting spending will create jobs. This year we have an opportunity to elect new people, who will get results.

Please vote for me on Nov. 2. Thank you.

Karen Spilka

Democrat for State Senate

2nd Middlesex and Norfolk District

It has been an honor and a privilege to serve as your State Senator, and one that I do not take for granted. With your support, I can continue working with you to build a better, stronger MetroWest.

I would like to share with you a quote by Margaret Chase Smith that I live by. It exemplifies why I want to continue to be your State Senator:

"My creed is that public service must be more than doing a job efficiently and honestly. It must be a complete dedication to the people and to the [state] with full recognition that every human being is entitled to courtesy and consideration, that constructive criticism is not only to be expected but sought, that smears are not only to be expected but fought, that honor is to be earned but not bought."

I ask for your vote on Nov. 2. Thank you.

Chuck Kuniewich

Independent for State Rep

3rd Middlesex District

The legislature's disconnect between their actions and promises have yielded a lack of confidence and trust in them. We might be more trusting of the legislature if those temporary taxes had included sunset clauses, or if the tolls had ended as promised when the pike was paid off. Loss of confidence is the common thread for our issues of jobs, education, health care costs and taxes. Spending money today requires confidence that it will be replenished tomorrow. Investors take risks that create jobs when they have confidence that they will get to keep enough money to justify the risks taken. Whether you happen to be a government, corporation, or an individual, keeping your promise creates confidence, trust and wealth which funds everything. My word is my most valuable asset and is the cornerstone of how I build confidence and I am fully committed to make it the legislatures as well.

Kate Hogan

Democrat for State Rep

3rd Middlesex District

I am running for reelection, as your state representative, because I know state government can make a difference in people's lives.

I've seen it. I have seen how challenges can be turned to opportunity by working to solve what looks like an impossible situation.

In advocating for constituents I see how a legislator can make sense of a frustrating circumstance with a phone call or a visit, in fighting for funding for our schools and libraries I have learned how to ask for what we need and stand up for what I believe, and in leading the efforts to create public transportation for my communities I can see what the future could look like for my district. Reelection will give me the chance to build on my achievements of the last few years and continue to focus on the needs and possibilities of the 3rd Middlesex District. I ask for your vote on Nov. 2.

Page 4 of 7 - Danielle Gregoire

Democrat for State Rep

4th Middlesex District

In addition to my legislative and committee work, researching, and fact finding, speaking engagements, constituent work, meeting with advocates, and working with local governments, organizations and businesses are all part of my daily responsibilities as your Representative. It's work to get other members to understand your point of view and apply it to their districts. I worked hard to get people from other parts of the state to agree that MetroWest residents should not be paying for the big dig through doubled tolls. I didn't flip a switch to get those tolls to stay the same, I fought hard to make it happen.

Just because a candidate promises lower taxes doesn't mean he has the ability to deliver them. Rather than making promises I can't keep, I continue to build on momentum I've gathered as a first term Rep., focusing on realistic solutions to challenges we face together.

Steven Levy

Republican for State Rep

4th Middlesex District

As we reach the final stretch of this campaign season, I reflect on the wonderful people I have met over the last ten months. They come from all walks of life and are at various points in their journeys. I have met teachers, retirees, stay-at-home moms, lawyers, contractors, small business owners and several who were unemployed. I have been invited into their living rooms, sat with them in a diner or just talked on the street. And while they all face different challenges, most have something in common. They have been forced to make tough decisions about what spending to cut. And they are simply tired of big government that doesn't see them, doesn't hear them and plays by different rules than they have to. These are the people I want to represent on Beacon Hill. I need your vote on Nov. 2, to fight for them... and you.

Chris Walsh

Democrat for State Rep

6th Middlesex District

The job of any legislator is more than voting; information needs to be absorbed on difficult topics and that takes an ability to forge relationships - even with people with whom you disagree. I have served on many committees and boards and have developed a well-rounded vision of this diverse community. I have met many citizens, municipal employees and community organizers who care deeply about Framingham. I rarely run into bigots or nimby's, but usually it seems different sides of an issue seldom listen to opposing opinions before restating their own views.

I attend the MERC conferences, regional planning agencies and meet with both non-profit and for-profit groups even while disagreeing with their policies. Neither of my opponents takes the time to learn about the community from different perspectives. If they are unable to forge working relationships in their own community, should we believe that they can at the State House?

Page 5 of 7 - Jim Pillsbury

Independent for State Rep

6th Middlesex District

Voters in Framingham deserve better from Beacon Hill and expect their rep to do anything and everything to help Framingham. Experience, leadership and success. This is what I offer that my opponents do not. I have a record of bringing the will of the voter to fruition. I am experienced at successfully standing up for the independent majority over partisan control. I offer you more than just ideas, I offer you experience at making those ideas reality. You can trust that I will be a catalyst for changing the way the State House operates, putting control of our state back in the hands of the voters. If you want results, if you want a representative who will stand up for the working class, seniors, veterans and our kids' education and safety, then send me to the Hill on Nov. 2. Check the opponents' web sites and the check mine, www.jimpillsbury.homestead.com.

Jim Rizoli

Independent for State Rep

6th Middlesex District

If you the voter are voting the same kind of people in office, and getting the same results, OR not getting any results, wouldn't you think it would be time to vote someone in who at least will try to get different results?

Results that will not put you in the poor house, or jeopardize your health, and safety.

Time for a revolution folks, and it starts one State Rep. at a time, and I hope I could be the one that gets the ball rolling.

Please consider me when you vote in November. If not, your next move will be out of the town with all the other town employees who live there. Yes folks, half of ALL town employees live out of Framingham, most of all the writers for the MWDNews live out of Framingham.

Time to take our towns back from those that have mismanaged them.

David Mercer

Republican for State Rep

7th Middlesex District

Election day is fast approaching. Many decisions will be made that day. The people of our community will exercise their power to vote to affect the direction of our state over the next couple of years. Do we want to maintain business as usual, or will we take steps for change in our government? I believe we need to change our state government on Beacon Hill. We need changes for Framingham and Ashland. Important decisions need to be made about our economy and improving the market for jobs. I ask you to allow me to serve our community as state representative. You have the power to bring new leadership into office. Please make plans to vote on November second. It is important. Every vote counts. You may learn more about me by visiting my website. www.electdavemercer.com.

Page 6 of 7 - Tom Sannicandro

Democrat for State Rep

7th Middlesex District

I first ran for office promising to fight for our schools. As your Representative, I've done just that. I promised to push for reform to the states education funding formula. We just weren't getting our fair share. Changing the formula wasn't popular with many of my fellow legislators because it would mean less money for their districts. However, believing it was the right and necessary thing to do, I pressed them.

My district's annual school funding allotment has doubled since the change. That's millions extra each year for Framingham's and Ashland's schools. Next session, it will again be time for Massachusetts to revisit the way it funds its public schools. We need a representative at the table who understands the formula and the ways schools are funded.

I am running again this November to finish the work we started six years ago. For more information, visitwww.tomworksforus.com.

Carolyn Dykema

Democrat for State Rep

8th Middlesex District

It's been my privilege to be your State Representative for two years, working to set us on solid fiscal ground while protecting what we care about most.

Since taking office, I've worked to build on Massachusetts' strengths by maximizing local aid to schools, helping bring $9m in infrastructure funds to the district, and voting to advance legislation that protects our natural resources.

I've focused on controlling costs by voting to stop pension abuse, and for measures that address the high cost of healthcare, which is weighing on municipalities, families and small businesses.

To help government run more efficiently, I initiated a "lean government" pilot program that's based on business principles and will help save money and provide better state services.

As your legislator, I will continue to work on these and other issues that matter to you and our district, and I ask for your vote on Nov. 2.

Jonathan Loya

Independent for State Rep

8th Middlesex District

Let's face it, state spending is out of control. In an audit done in 2009 of the state finances, it showed that Massachusetts spent approximately $52 billion in total state spending. On top of this, there was also approximately $23 billion in municipal spending. That comes to a grand total of approximately $75 billion. If we want to be fiscally responsible we should not make cuts to schools, police, and healthcare. We have 537 state agencies with each demanding their own budget, where is the fiscal responsibility here? My goal as your next state representative will be to help lower our state's deficit by cutting wasteful spending so those funds leftover can go into your pockets and the pockets of small business owners.

Page 7 of 7 - Jennifer Callahan

Democrat for State Rep

18th Worcester District

My opponent has been caught in a number of lies, fabrications and untruths throughout this campaign. The people of the 18th Worcester District deserve a Representative that will serve with honor, not an individual who will stoop to lies and distortion - Campaign School 101 tactics - to garner votes.

My opponent has distributed literature which intentionally distorts my record on illegal immigration, a record that is public and available for viewing at www.mass.gov/legislature.

I am proud of my record dating back to 2004 showing I have consistently voted against access to state benefits by illegal immigrants.

I have stood by and I have stood for the people of my District as their independent voice and vote in the Legislature. On Election Day I look forward to receiving the one endorsement that truly matters - their vote.

www.repcallahan.com.

Ryan Fattman

Republican for State Rep

18th Worcester District

Massachusetts must head in a new direction. For 10 years, employers and entrepreneurs have moved away to other states with greater economic opportunity, and more reasonable tax and regulatory systems.

Growing a prosperous economy is the most important issue of this campaign. Economic growth feeds important local services like education and public safety. Job creation puts people back to work, providing dignity and self-dependence.

Governor Patrick and Representative Callahan's economic policies have failed us. Right now 300,000 people are unemployed, and we have spent our way into a $2.5 Billion budget gap. We currently provide welfare, housing and healthcare to illegal immigrants. Patrick and Callahan answers' have been to raise taxes on businesses and families.

If you like these ways, vote for them. If you think we need to end benefits to illegal immigrants, restore education funding, lower taxes, and fix our regulations to make Massachusetts affordable and economically competitive, I ask for your vote on Nov. 2.